The City of Santa Fe is excited to launch Santa Fe Forward, a major planning initiative that will update the city’s General Plan for the first time since 1999. This updated plan will create a vision for Santa Fe’s future through the year 2050, focusing on the city’s growth, environment, housing, public services, and more.
This is not just a government project—it’s a community-led vision, and all Santa Fe residents are invited to take part and help shape the direction of the city.
Why Update the General Plan Now?
The current General Plan was created back in 1999. While many ideas from that plan still apply, a lot has changed in the last 25 years. Santa Fe now faces new challenges like housing affordability, climate change, technology growth, and economic shifts. These require fresh ideas and updated policies.
Cities usually update their General Plans every 20 to 25 years to keep up with these kinds of changes. That’s why Santa Fe Forward is so important—it will be a roadmap for the city until 2050, guiding how Santa Fe grows and improves.
What Will Santa Fe Forward Cover?
The updated plan will focus on several key areas that affect daily life and the future of the city:
Vision, Goals & Policies
Clear goals to guide decisions and future growth in Santa Fe.
Land Use & Development
How land will be used, where growth should happen, and how to protect important areas.
Housing, Neighborhoods & Transportation
Improving housing options and making it easier to get around the city.
Natural Environment & Climate Change
Protecting water, natural resources, and planning for a healthy environment.
Public Services & Culture
Planning for things like parks, libraries, public safety, and cultural spaces.
How Can You Get Involved?
The city wants to hear from as many people as possible to make sure this plan reflects the real needs and hopes of the community. There are several ways to get involved:
Attend Public Events
Join open houses and local conversations to share your views in person.
Participate Online
Visit the Santa Fe Forward website to use interactive maps, surveys, and tools to give your feedback easily.
Community Partner Program
Local organizations can apply for mini grants to help bring more voices into the process. This ensures the plan represents everyone, especially those from underrepresented groups. Deadline to apply: April 6, 2025.
Join the Technical Working Group
If you have knowledge in topics like environment, housing, or planning, you can apply to help guide the plan. Send a letter of interest and resume to: [email protected] by April 6, 2025.
A Symbol of Santa Fe’s Identity
You’ll see the Santa Fe Forward logo in different places across the city—on signs, flyers, and online. It features the prickly pear cactus, a symbol that reflects Santa Fe’s history, strength, and beauty. The project’s tagline—“Embracing Our Heritage, Empowering Our Future”—shows how this plan honours Santa Fe’s past while preparing for a better tomorrow.
Santa Fe Forward is your chance to help shape how the city grows and improves over the next 25 years. From better housing and public spaces to safer transportation and environmental care, your voice matters. Whether you join a community event, apply to a program, or give feedback online, you’re helping build a stronger, more inclusive Santa Fe.
For updates, event info, and to share your input, visit the Santa Fe Forward website, follow the City of Santa Fe on social media, or reach out at [email protected] or 505-878-6520.